Federal Judge Suspends Linda McMahon’s Lawsuit Over WWE Abuse Allegations

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A federal judge has temporarily halted a lawsuit against Linda McMahon, former WWE executive and potential U.S. Secretary of Education, amid allegations of neglecting abuse reports.

At a Glance

  • A federal judge paused a child abuse case involving Linda McMahon, Vince McMahon, and WWE
  • The lawsuit alleges the McMahons ignored abuse of underaged “ring boys” by WWE staff
  • The case is suspended pending a ruling on the Maryland Child Victims Act of 2023
  • The McMahons have denied all allegations, calling them baseless and defamatory
  • The pause could last until August 31, 2025, when a decision from the Maryland Supreme Court is expected

Lawsuit Allegations and Legal Proceedings

The lawsuit, filed by five unnamed former WWE employees, accuses Linda McMahon and her husband, Vince, of failing to address reports of abuse against teenage “Ring Boys” within the WWE during the 1980s. The case, initially filed in state court in Baltimore and later moved to federal court in Maryland, alleges systemic abuse of underaged children by a deceased WWE employee, Melvin Phillips Jr.

The federal judge’s decision to pause the litigation is directly related to pending judicial decisions on the constitutionality of the Maryland Child Victims Act (CVA). This act, if upheld, could repeal the statute of limitations for certain civil actions related to child abuse, potentially allowing cases from decades ago to proceed.

McMahons’ Response and Legal Defense

Both Linda and Vince McMahon have vehemently denied the allegations. Their legal representatives have issued strong statements refuting the claims, characterizing them as baseless and defamatory.

“This civil lawsuit based upon 30-plus-year-old allegations is filled with scurrilous lies, exaggerations and misrepresentations regarding Linda McMahon.” – Laura Brevetti

Linda McMahon’s attorney, Laura Brevetti, has stated that the FBI previously investigated the matter and found no grounds to continue the investigation. The defendants, including WWE and its parent company TKO, requested the stay until the CVA’s constitutionality is determined, which was granted by the federal judge.

Potential Impact on McMahon’s Cabinet Nomination

The timing of this lawsuit is particularly significant as it emerged shortly before Linda McMahon’s nomination for U.S. Secretary of Education. The allegations could potentially affect her confirmation for the cabinet position, with some senators expressing concern about the accusations.

Despite the controversy, supporters of McMahon point to her success in transforming WWE into a global powerhouse and her limited but relevant education experience. This includes serving as a trustee for Sacred Heart University, a year on the Connecticut Board of Education, and championing literacy programs like the WrestleMania Reading Challenge during her time at WWE.

Looking Ahead

The legal proceedings are now on hold, with a decision from the Maryland Supreme Court expected by August 31, 2025. This pause allows time for the constitutionality of the Maryland Child Victims Act to be determined, which will significantly impact the trajectory of this case and potentially others like it.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how these allegations and the ongoing legal battle will affect Linda McMahon’s nomination and potential confirmation as U.S. Secretary of Education. The case highlights the complex intersection of past allegations, current legal frameworks, and the vetting process for high-level government positions.

Sources:

  1. Judge pauses abuse lawsuit involving Trump’s education secretary pick
  2. Linda McMahon’s alleged WWE abuse lawsuit paused
  3. Judge Pauses Abuse Lawsuit Against Trump’s Education Secretary Pick
  4. Judge Pauses Lawsuit Against Linda McMahon, Trump’s Education Secretary Pick

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